Keeping Christ in Christmas

On the first Sunday in December, thousands of people line the downtown sidewalks of Branson to watch a Christmas parade with no hint of commercialism.

The theme has always been "Keeping Christ in Christmas."

This year marks the 59th Adoration Parade in this popular Missouri tourism destination. It's an evening event with two dozen high school bands and three dozen lighted floats sponsored by businesses, local churches, youth groups and community organizations.

Branson Arts Council Hosts Two Free Seasonal Concerts

The Branson Arts Council's Community Concert Series has two upcoming events in December to herald the season. Both will be presented on Sunday afternoons at the historic Old Stone Church in downtown Branson.

On Sunday, Dec. 2, College of the Ozarks Hand Bell Choir and Chamber Chorale will perform at 3 p.m. in the Old Stone Church. After the concert, guests may head two blocks downtown for the 59th Annual Adoration Parade which begins with the lighting of the Nativity Scene atop Mount Branson at 5 p.m.

The college's Handbell Choir has just returned from a performance trip to Europe. Plan to arrive early because this concert tends to attract a full house.

Then on Sunday, Dec. 9, at 2 p.m., the Branson Brass will present a tribute to the holidays and other favorite selections. Artists featured include David Watz, Leon Bradley, Jim Moeskau, John Casebourn and Joel Wiemken.

The concerts are free, and the public is invited to see these talented local artists. The Branson Arts Council, the Missouri Arts Council and the First Presbyterian Church of Branson sponsor the performances. The Old Stone Church is located at the corner of Fourth and Pacific streets. For more information, call the Branson Arts Council at 417-336-4255.

Additional information about Branson, its live entertainment, theme parks, lakes, golf courses, family attractions, shopping and other features is offered at http://www.explorebranson.com/ or 800-296-0463.

Christmas in Branson

Christmas season in the Ozarks begins in November, as most of the local theaters and attractions are adorned in the Christmas spirit.

Anywhere you look, Christmas decor blends with the striking scenes of the Ozarks region.

The best thing about Christmas -- the shows and attractions celebrate not only this great country we live in but the most important figure in our tradition, Jesus Christ and his divine birth.

Pauline Frommer, travel writer and daughter of the famous travel expert Arthur Frommer, has voted Branson as one of the top destinations to celebrate the holidays in the world!

You can choose from a line-up of more than 100 shows daily in any one of the theaters boasting more than 1000 seats or enjoy a more personal experience on a smaller stage. Although, historically, Branson has been known as a Country Music Mecca, it now includes live entertainment ranging from comedy, illusion, jazz, blues, Big Band, pop and even Broadway.

Happy Holidays in Branson!